Legend Quest

The lead character, Leo, is Mexican and frequently references Mexican traditions and folklore. His heritage is an important part of his character, but he also has an array of personality traits, including self-deprecating humor, and his experiences of growing up, relationships, and taking on challenges will be universally familiar. Another main character is a magical Alebrije creature, and there are two supporting characters who are Calaveras -- candy skulls -- all based on Mexican folklore. The film visits countries around the world to represent different cultures, which are achieved with some historical accuracy and some elements of stereotype -- though never actively negative. Characters do adhere to some gender stereotypes, with young women mostly dressed in pink and purple skirts and dresses, referred to as "yammering" and "gossiping," and serving as a love interest to Leo as part of their role. There's some attempt to challenge this by also presenting female characters as confident and self-assured, such as when Marcella shows a desire to play football or when Teodora proves her physical strength and leadership skills. Elsewhere, there's a lack of diversity in fields such as LGBTQ characters, body size, and those with disabilities.

While there is no strong violence, there is a near-constant level of threat from mythical monsters of various types. Some destroy whole villages, with the inhabitants presumed dead. There are multiple ghost characters, including two within the main friendship group. Characters are possessed, haunted, attacked by monsters and other humans, chased by zombie-like creatures, shot at by cannons, struck with objects, tied to stakes, and fall from great heights, among other things.

Leo and Marcella share a kiss.

Negative language includes "damnable," "butt," "dumb," "stupid," "weirdo," "freak," and "ugly." A female character is said to "yammer," "prattle," and "gossip."

Parents need to know that Legend Quest is an animated adventure series about a Mexican boy and his supernatural friends (ghosts, a shape-shifting animal, and two Mexican candy-sugar skulls) who team up against a nefarious serpent god. The story is set in the 19th century and is heavily inspired by Mexican folklore, as well as other myths and traditions from around the world, which offers the potential to spark curiosity, as well as some educational value. There are enough historical references and injections of humor to appeal to adults, making this a great pick for parents and kids to watch together -- particularly because of some more frightening moments featuring threats from various monsters. Also expect to hear words like "damnable," "butt," "stupid," "dumb," and "freak." All in all, though, this is a unique addition to tweens' options that ups the diversity among likable young heroes and heroines.